Fees go up under proposed Fairfax Co. budget

FAIRFAX, Va. – The cost of owning a home in Fairfax County would go up under the proposed budget for fiscal 2013.

Under the $6.7 billion spending plan proposed by County Executive Anthony H. Griffin, homeowners would, on average, see their yearly tax bills rise by about $80.

While the property tax rate would remain the same, at $1.07 per $100 of assessed value, property taxes would go up as a result of rising home values. Homeowners also would have to pay more in stormwater fees, which are tied to real estate assessments.

Additionally, Griffin is suggesting the County Board of Supervisors reserve the right to raise the property tax rate, to $1.09 per $100 of assessed value, in order to bring in more money for the school system.

The Fairfax County School Board had asked for an 8.4 percent increase in funding, but would get a 4.5 percent increase under the plan.

It also includes cuts of $11 million to county agencies, and has the net effect of eliminating two county jobs.

The budget made no mention of a controversial “meals tax” idea, which would place a 4 percent tax on meals at restaurants to help raise money for transportation. To impose a meals tax, Fairfax County would need the approval of the General Assembly or approval from voters in a referendum.

The fiscal 2013 budget will be Griffin’s last, since he plans to step down this spring. County supervisors have until May to finalize the plan.

Residents can begin giving their feedback today in a 2 p.m. online chat with the county executive.